The Adventure

While those early morning classes for your degree may not sound too enticing, few things may slake one’s curiosity as much as fieldwork. Through direct observation, fieldwork enables the geologist to grapple with the chaotic mess about us we call the world and attempt to distill it into underlying foundational concepts. Through this process, one must be willing to climb over hill and dale as the urge for discovery drives onward, turning over rocks no one has ever seen before to ponder its clues. Even so, fieldwork must invariably lead to returning to a lab for the inglorious work of systematic measurements ever repeated for accuracy. Thus, it is not merely the adrenaline rush which keeps the geologist at work. Here too, however, is the mystery of discovery, for through meticulous measurement one may draw forth the geologic story like a skillful detective. By these means one may better acquaint oneself with nature’s many mysteries.

The demands of working as an Applied Geologist can be difficult for those with family obligations, especially if your position involves a lot of field work and travel. It can be a bit of a balancing act to maintain a healthy, happy home life when you are frequently on the road.

Bringing home souvenirs is nice, but your kids and spouse would likely rather have your time and attention than a t-shirt or a paperweight. We have some tips for making this type of on-the-go position work for an Applied Geologist with a family.

Applied Geology can be a lucrative profession. Professional, experienced geologists will have opportunities to hold well-compensated and prestigious positions at large petroleum companies, governmental agencies and large corporations. It can, therefore be challenging to recruit the best prospects for your small firm over these other potential options.

Blue Mesa in Petrified Forest [credit: NPS, public domain]

Continuing our series of articles on geology travel in the United States (see Travels in Geology -  California and Utah), this month we are featuring some of the fantastic opportunities to experience geological wonders throughout the state of Arizona. (Be sure to check on all locations for current visiting protocols during Covid.)

So you’ve just decided to set out and become your own boss as an Applied Geosciences consultant. Congratulations! Of course, now comes the hard part, attracting customers. We have some tips for marketing yourself and your new consultation services.

Create a compelling short summary of what you offer.

Radon is a naturally-occurring radioactive gas found commonly in many buildings. It is known to cause lung cancer. Because it is colorless and odorless and can easily build up to dangerous levels in the enclosed spaces of our homes and workplaces, it poses a particularly sneaky hidden threat. Structures of any age can be susceptible to high radon levels, however there are certain areas of the country that are at an increased risk of elevated radon levels. Visit the EPA’s interactive radon map to see the risk level in your area.

Radon gas forms in the Earth’s crust during the uranium decaying process. It rises through the surface of bedrock and soil, where it seeps into buildings through foundations and subfloor levels. If the radon gas does not have the ability to dissipate, it can build up and expose the people within to significant health risks. 

Understanding Business Entities, Taxes, Liability and Insurance

It is nearly summer, and that means vacations, travel and road trips. As a follow-up to our article Travels in Geology - California, this month we have decided to feature some of the fantastic opportunities to experience geological wonders throughout the state of Utah. (Be sure to check on all locations for current visiting protocols during Covid.)

The forces of erosion and climate have exposed an extraordinary diversity of rocks and geologic formations throughout Utah, making it a fascinating location to visit and explore. The commanding landscape documents the ongoing processes of wind and water erosion, the formation and disappearance of glaciers and lakes, and the land-altering impacts of powerful earthquakes and volcanoes.

 Damage from January 17, 1994 Northridge earthquake (USGS, public domain)

One of the most important functions that an Applied Geologist can undertake is to study and assess the risk of human injury and property damage posed by potential geologic hazards.  This allows the geologist to make recommendations to mitigate those hazards, thereby fulfilling a critically important societal need.